Linville Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Linville is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in North Carolina, specifically in Burke County near Glen Alpine.


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Summary

Built in 1919 by the Western Power Company, this Earth-type dam stands at an impressive height of 160 feet and spans 1325 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 288,800 acre-feet and a surface area of 6,510 acres, Linville plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of the Linville River for generating hydroelectricity.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Linville serves as a key source of renewable energy while also posing a high hazard potential due to its structural complexity. Despite its age, this dam remains operational and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and efficiency. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation, prompting the need for risk assessment and management measures to mitigate potential disasters.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Linville to be a fascinating example of how human engineering can harness the power of nature for sustainable energy production. Its historical significance, high hazard potential, and role in providing clean electricity make it an intriguing focal point for those interested in the intersection of water infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

1325

Dam Height

160

River Or Stream

Linville River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6510

Hydraulic Height

160

Nid Storage

288800

Structural Height

160

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

160
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.